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Written by
Larry Stark, Founder / Main Editor
Professional fisherman, who loves to review new fishing gadgets.
Catching snook requires patience and knowing the right time when to strike. As a type of fish that mostly feeds at dawn or dusk, nighttime fishing is the most popular way to catch snook.
But having just this knowledge is not enough. Snook prefers some fish more than others, especially going wild over shrimps. However, you can’t always have live baits of this type with you.
In this article, we’ll go through the top snook lures that must be part of every snook fisherman’s tackle box if they want to reel in some heavy snook. Keep reading to find the best options.
Top 3 Snook Lures
Best Quality Lure For Snook Fishing
Heddon One Knocker Spook
- Quality-made treble hooks
- Premium quality tungsten
- Works well in windy weather
Best Jerkbait For Snook Fishing
Bass Assassin Sea Shad
- Simple to use
- Budget-friendly
- Long-standing manufacturing tradition
Best Spinnerbait For Snook Fishing
Rapala X-Rap
- Holographic inserts
- Excellent performance in shallow water
- Works well for long casting
Table of Contents
- 7 Best Snook Lures
- Rapala Skitter Walk Lure
- Bomber Long A Hard Bait
- Strike King Redfish Magic Saltwater
- Yo-Zuri R1153 Hydro Pencil Lure
- D.O.A. Shrimp
- MirrOdine 17MR
- The Johnson Silver Minnow
- How to Choose Snook Lures Based on Season?
- Low Tide Fishing
- Summertime Snook Fishing
- Winter Snook Fishing
- River Snook Fishing
7 Best Snook Lures
- Rapala Skitter Walk – Best Quality Snook Lures
- Bomber Long A Hard Bait – Best Snook Jerkbaits
- Strike King Redfish Magic Saltwater – Best Snook Spinnerbaits
- Yo-Zuri R1153 Hydro Pencil Lure – Best Snook Lures For Topwater
- D.O.A. Shrimp – Best Snook Shrimps
- MirrOdine 17MR – Best Snook Lures For Clear Waters
- The Johnson Silver Minnow – Best Snook Spoons
#1
Best Snook Lures Overall
Rapala Skitter Walk Lure
WHY WE LIKE IT: The Rapala Skitter Walk are one of the best snook artificial lures for saltwater species that even you can mistake for live bait. It has beautiful craftsmanship with a special design made for perfect walk-the-dog motions that can take on large saltwater game fish. Also, important to mention, this is a legendary topwater lure – check our selection guide for the topwater rods.
- Material: Blend
- Weight: 0.01 Pounds
- Size: 4.375 inches
- Color: 11 colors to choose from, including Blue Mullet, Gold Chrome, and Green Mullet
Pros
- Its wide belly construction makes it easier to stay on the water
- Reliable and proven lure
- Great in windy conditions
- The lure has a great rattle that can lure fish from afar
Cons
- A bit pricy compared to other lures
- It may not be practical for freshwater fishing
- Some anglers find it hard to cast accurately due to its weight-transfer system
OVERVIEW: We can say without holding back that the Rapala Skitter Walk is very easy to use and it’s truly a good snook. If you want a lure with outstanding construction, solid endurance, and a realistic appearance that almost instantly lures inshore fish, this is the match for you. We also have saltwater fishing rod selection guide for more in-depth information.
We took it for a spin and got surprised by how long you can cast it. The weighted tail kept the bait in a natural position even when we let the rod rest. In the end, we got more snook than we bargained for.
FEATURES: Made of high-quality materials, these best snook lures are long-lasting, armed with nickel hooks, and can withstand harsh saltwater conditions. Their well-thought weight and size set them apart from the competition.
#2
Jerkbait
Bomber Long A Hard Bait
WHY WE LIKE IT: We mainly love this snook lure because of the vast amount of colors to choose from which allows us to catch fish any time of the day, anywhere! Bomber Long Jarkbait is so cleverly constructed that even novice anglers can use it.
- Material: Blend
- Size: 6 inches 7/8 oz
- Weight: 0.05625 pounds
- Color: 46 to choose from, including Clown, Crazy Crush, and Disco Ball
Pros
- Robust structure that can withstand demanding water conditions
- You can catch fish offshore and inshore
- It can take vicious strikes from toothy fish
- Great range of colors
Cons
- The small size can get snugged
- The lure may be out of budget for some anglers' fishing arsenal
- Not that practical in stained water
OVERVIEW: We decided to try the Gold chrome lure size 6 and got attention from a large barracuda. So if you want to go for a big catch, the Bomber Long A Hard Bait will surely do the trick. Additionally, we recommend the Saltwater Grade hooks since they keep their quality the same for a long time and you should consider it as top baits for bigger fish. We also put in our list of the best lures for casual fishing.
FEATURES: Exquisite imitation of wounded bait fish and sturdy polycarbonate body makes this one-of-a-kind lure completely different from the competition.
#3
Spinnerbait
Strike King Redfish Magic Saltwater
WHY WE LIKE IT: This beautiful Strike King Redfish Magic Saltwater spinnerbait is explicitly made to target redfish. At the same time, the realistic swimming action will attract plenty of other fish with these type of baits.
- Material: Synthetic
- Size: 1/4 oz, 1/8 oz, 0.125 oz
- Weight: 0.03 pounds
- Color: 7 colors to choose from, including Silver, Avocado, and Black Neon
Pros
- Big 3D eyes that add to the natural look
- Works great in freshwater and saltwater
- Bright, attractive color pattern
- You can use it for jigging, trolling, and casting
Cons
- The lure's body gets chewed up semi-fast by large teeth
- A bit pricy
- The soft plastic of the body may slide down the hook
OVERVIEW: This snook lure can give you different experiences, even though it is made for redfish. So if you are up for some experiments, take the lure and go on an adventure.
We went out on the beach and took the Blue crab 1/4 size. Not surprisingly, we caught a puppy drum, inlets, and channels.
FEATURES: Drenched in natural scent and crafted with premium stainless steel, these best snook lures embody the essence of a living fish, leaving the competition in awe of their authenticity.
#4
Topwater
Yo-Zuri R1153 Hydro Pencil Lure
WHY WE LIKE IT: It’s a fantastic Yo-Zuri R1153 Hydro Pencil lure that can target snook, bass, redfish, and tarpon. The real-like profile and beautiful paint finishes make it perfect for topwater fishing.
- Material: Plastic
- Size: 4.92126 inches
- Color: Bone and Blue Mackerel
- Weight: 0.06 Pounds
Pros
- Affordable lure
- Great sounds that perfectly copy small baitfish or shrimp
- Created with robust materials
- Resistant to corrosion, so that you can use it multiple times
Cons
- The hooks are not of high-quality
- Many fishers say that the accuracy for casting is a bit off
- Not effective in windy situations
OVERVIEW: The Yo-Zuri R1153 Hydro Pencil Lure is an ultra-reliable and high-performance bait that every fisherman must have in their tackle box. We noticed that this lure is most effective when the fish are at close range because the rattle emits a chime that perfectly imitates an injured baitfish. If you plan on fishing in salt water, then this is the right snook lure for you.
FEATURES: Carbon steel treble hooks, a long polycarbonate body equipped with two rattles, and heavy-duty split rings make this lure great for saltwater and catching several species in inshore waters. This snook lure is almost vertical standing in the water column, redfish can not get enough of it in canals.
#5
Shrimps
D.O.A. Shrimp
WHY WE LIKE IT: Didn’t we say that snook especially love shrimps? That is precisely why we like this bait. Even with the smallest of movements, the D.O.A. Shrimp is sure to reel in a good catch. Basically, it catches snook or any other salt and freshwater fish that hunts for shrimps and gets you consistent results every time.
- Material: N/A
- Size: 3 inches 1/4 oz
- Weight: 8.81 pounds
- Color: Clear/Red Glitter
Pros
- Great for saltwater and freshwater fishing
- Great for large fish
- The glittering is alluring to many fish
- Great downward facing
Cons
- Not that robust compared with other soft baits
- The price is a bit higher than other shrimp lures
- The hook may get pulled through the lure after some use
OVERVIEW: Out of all the shrimp baits we’ve tried, this one goes to the top. We gave it a go in both saltwater and freshwater, and it got us our first catch of the day: a snook that bites on after the third strike with just a few minutes in the water.
If you’re someone that wants an effortless fishing trip on which you will succeed like never before, you should definitely make the D.O.A. Shrimp part of your fishing tackle box.
FEATURES: Infused with the mesmerizing essence of a natural shrimp, these remarkable best snook lures captivate with their lifelike appearance and tantalizing movements. While the selection of colors may be modest, the sparkling allure they possess entices the elusive snook with an irresistible charm that leaves other lures in awe.
#6
Clear Water
MirrOdine 17MR
WHY WE LIKE IT: We like this MirrOdine 17MR Snook lure due to its clever way of copying distinct baitfish like pilchard, pinfish, and many more. Its wide body and natural paint finishes are a good choice to fish in calm and clear waters.
- Material: Other
- Weight: 0.02 pounds
- Size: 2 5/8 in 3/8 oz
- Color: Black Bk/White/Silver and Green Bk/White/Silver
Pros
- Great sink rate
- Effective fish-alluring rattles
- Perfect imitation of a wounded baitfish
- Attracts snook and other game fish
Cons
- Some anglers are not satisfied with the stock hooks
- Not practical for shallow waters
- Requires more maintenance than usual
OVERVIEW: We took the 3/8 size out for a spin on a calm night and used several retrieve speeds while we twitched the bait. With a slow and steady retrieve, we got amazing results.
So if you are interested in a versatile lure or want to go fishing for snook, this is the bait!
FEATURES: The flawless, 3D eye design adds to the realistic profile. Plus, with the fish-pulling rattles as a unique feature, this lure is quite different than the competitors.
#7
Spoon
The Johnson Silver Minnow
WHY WE LIKE IT: The Johnson Silver Minnow Snook is beloved for its unique spoon design, mimicking wounded baitfish. The silver-plated finish adds to its allure. Versatile and effective for various species, it’s a must-have lure for anglers targeting bass, pike, walleye, and more.
- Material: Blend
- Weight: 0.046 pounds
- Size: 3/4 oz
- Color: Gold
Pros
- Pesky fish can not damage it
- Great lure for anglers of all skill levels
- Swims naturally, making it appear more lifelike to fish
- Vibrant colors that attract a variety of fish
Cons
- It may rust if not cleaned properly
- You need to manage the weedless weed from time to time
- Some anglers state that you need additional weight to achieve desired trolling speeds
OVERVIEW: Anyone who wants to try out a simple spoon lure that is sure to bring some catch should give The Johnson Silver Minnow a go. We took it out in pads for target bass, and after some slow reels of the spoon across the pads, we got a good catch of snooks.
FEATURES: The top feature of the lure is that it’s equipped with two strong treble hooks that make it easy to set the hook and keep your catch.
How to Choose Snook Lures Based on Season?
Low Tide Fishing
Snook lures excel in low tide fishing due to several key benefits. Clearer and shallower waters during low tide make snook more discerning, and these lures expertly mimic local prey, attracting their attention. With various styles and sizes available, snook lures adapt to different low tide conditions.
Precision casting is crucial to reach hidden snook in structures or holes, and lures offer the control needed. Their artificial presentation remains attractive throughout retrieval, ideal when live bait is less effective. Lures also reduce the risk of snagging in exposed debris, and some even have scent and noise features to boost attraction. Lastly, their exposed hooks make for more effective hook sets compared to live bait, making snook lures a top choice for low tide success.
Summertime Snook Fishing
Sunny days and clear water make summertime great for catching snook. They love soft baits, so using that lure will be productive. Remember that they are not easy to rig, so you will need the right hook.
If you can start fishing in the flats, try a lure with 1/4 or 1/8 jig head that mimics a small minnow and toss it in the water. It may go up and down for some time, but rest assured you will notice soon how the sticks begin.
Winter Snook Fishing
You will need to find the right water temperature to target snook in winter. You can fish in deeper inlets, below the dock pilings, or target rivers that flow into the Atlantic ocean.
The best time is usually at night near bridges and docks where many bait fish and shrimp gather and attract snook. It is recommended to use live bait, like a live shrimp. But there are always alternatives like lures for winter, which can represent the bait effectively.
Use a sinker and then lower it down to the bottom. You can catch a big snook with a simple fishing technique.
River Snook Fishing
A good time for river fishing is when the weather gets warmer. First, you must look for a snook layer and its hunting grounds. To get it right the first time, you will need to cast your lure up-current from where the fish are.
Select a lure that imitates their typical prey, and when you cast it, wait for the river to take the bait to your targeted snook area. They will notice it, and you will have a good chance to catch one.
F. A. Q.
Yes, but you first need to get the lure to them. The roots of mangrove trees are the snook’s favorite hanging ground, so getting to them may be a little difficult. It’s best to use soft plastic bait or shrimp bait since shrimp is what snook love.
A chartreuse “yellow-green” tone is an excellent way to target snook. You can also use red jigheads, but we believe the yellow ones will pin fish better. Also, if you are going to fish inshore or in more tannin-stained waters, then go for amber, rose, and copper hues. Lures that look or behave link finger mullet are a good start!
Yes. The snook’s jaw is made so that topwater lures may be one of the most effective in catching one. But make sure you get a good topwater lure for fishing snook on the end of your rod tip.
Partially, which is why the best time to fish for snook is at night. Since they can’t really see much, you can fool even the wiliest one of them.